A booster club is a group of parents that works toward helping an organization fill gaps in their program. They provide support and help with fundraising so that an organization can get things that the district couldn’t otherwise afford.

Several groups and organizations have booster clubs such as band, Shy-Annes, and cheerleading.

“The money raised from fundraising is used for many things,” Band Booster Club president Maryann Weiderhold said. “With the help of the directors, the boosters will donate funds to purchase instruments, equipment, entry fees, and [hire] musical techs to assist the students.”

The directors delegate tasks to the booster club to lift some of the burden off of them so their attention can be focused on the students.

“We provide chaperones and roadies during marching season, contests or other trips,” Weiderhold said. “We help the leadership set up functions such as band banquet in the spring and middle school band night in the fall.”

Booster clubs can be great assets to clubs and organizations, especially during times of economic stress.

“They provide support for the band program and they help with the fundraising so that we can afford things that the school district can’t afford,” Band Director Robert Towell said.

The Shy-Anne booster club gives funds to purchase meals for away football games, costumes, choreography, props, and other things that come up during the year.

“Our booster club raises a lot of money each year to support Shy-Annes,” Shy-Anne Booster club President Johnna Arden said. “We are a financial support system for the team to make up for what the district cannot provide.”

That help is much appreciate by each of the organizations.

“We love our booster club and the support they offer,” Shy-Anne Director Anna McBride said. “We really appreciate the financial support they provide.”

During a time of financial strain, like the education system is facing now, additional aid given through groups like booster clubs is greatly appreciated and valued throughout the district.